Diabetic Foot Care
Diabetes affects many aspects of the body, including eyes, kidneys, circulation, wound healing, and especially the feet. People with Diabetes should have their feet checked by a Podiatrist at least once a year to make sure they are not at risk for any serious problems. Those with long thick toenails and calluses should come in every couple of months to have these trimmed to avoid problems.
Neuropathy, a common nerve disorder with Diabetes, is a general numbness and loss of feeling with the extremities. Those with neuropathy usually lose feeling in their toes and it progresses up the feet. This makes the feet more at risk for calluses, ulcers, and other problems. Sometimes the neuropathy becomes painful, keeping people up at night and hurting during the day. If you have these symptoms, be sure to discuss them with us so that we can help reduce the discomfort and prevent ulcerations, infections, and amputations.
For those with Medicare and who are Diabetic, you may qualify for a pair of quality extra-depth shoes and custom plastizote inserts. These comfortable inserts help prevent skin breakdown, calluses, and ulcers. They are very important in improving the health for your feet if you have Diabetes.
Other Diabetic Guidelines include:
- Do not attempt to trim your nails or calluses on your own, as this may lead to infection or ulcers. Allow us to provide this for you.
- You should examine you feet daily for any sudden redness, infection, blisters, or any other concerns. If you notice them, come in immediately to make sure it is not serious. Many ulcerations start out as something small and lead to amputations.
- Have someone assist you in looking at the bottom of your feet. Use a mirror if necessary.
- Do not apply over-the-counter patches, pads, or cushions with “chemicals” such as a “corn plaster”. These contain a weak acid that will damage the skin and can lead to something more serious.
- Do not wear stockings or socks with tight elastic bands. When wearing shoes, always wear comfortable socks.
- Look in your shoes before placing your feet in them and avoid foreign objects or anything else to cause harm to your feet. If you have neuropathy, you may not feel them in your shoes.
- Avoid water and heating pads / ice packs that are too hot or too cold. You may not be able to determine the temperature due to decreased circulation and feeling.
- Apply moisturizing lotion to your feet daily and prevent them from becoming too rough or dry.
- Avoid walking barefoot. Avoid sandals. Protect your feet the best you can.
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